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Review
. 2024 Mar;13(1):23-38.
doi: 10.1007/s13668-024-00517-z. Epub 2024 Jan 31.

Ultra-processed Food and Obesity: What Is the Evidence?

Samuel J Dicken  1 , Rachel L Batterham  2   3   4
Affiliations
Review

Ultra-processed Food and Obesity: What Is the Evidence?

Samuel J Dicken et al. Curr Nutr Rep. 2024 Mar.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Obesity is a growing global healthcare concern. A proposed driver is the recent increase in ultra-processed food (UPF) intake. However, disagreement surrounds the concept of UPF, the strength of evidence, and suggested mechanisms. Therefore, this review aimed to critically appraise the evidence on UPF and obesity.

Recent findings: Observational studies demonstrate positive associations between UPF intake, weight gain, and overweight/obesity, more clearly in adults than children/adolescents. This is supported by high-quality clinical data. Several mechanisms are proposed, but current understanding is inconclusive. Greater UPF consumption has been a key driver of obesity. There is a need to change the obesogenic environment to support individuals to reduce their UPF intake. The UPF concept is a novel approach that is not explained with existing nutrient- and food-based frameworks. Critical analysis of methodologies provides confidence, but future observational and experimental research outputs with greater methodological rigor will strengthen findings, which are outlined.

Keywords: Diet; Dietary guidelines; NOVA; Obesity; Public health; Ultra-processed food.

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Conflict of interest statement

S.J.D receives royalties from Amazon for a self-published book that mentions ultra-processed food, and payments from Red Pen Reviews. R.L.B is an employee of Eli Lilly and Company and reports honoraria from Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Medscape, ViiV Healthcare Ltd and International Medical P and advisory board and consultancy work for Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Pfizer, Gila Therapeutics Ltd, Epitomee Medical Ltd and ViiV Healthcare Ltd.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Summary of review findings regarding ultra-processed food and obesity
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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